Ostomy And Sex

Having sex with an ostomy can be a sensitive and personal topic for many people, as it may involve physical and emotional challenges. However, it is possible to have an active and fulfilling sex life after an ostomy, with some adjustments and considerations.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is communication. It's essential to talk openly with your partner about your concerns, needs, and limitations. You may also want to discuss your ostomy with your healthcare provider, who can provide advice and support.

Some people may worry that their ostomy will be a turn-off or make sex awkward. However, many people find that their partners are supportive and understanding. In fact, some people may even find that their ostomy makes them feel more confident and comfortable in their bodies.

Some tips for having sex with an ostomy may include:

1. Choose the right clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothes can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during sex.

2. Empty your ostomy pouch: Make sure to empty your pouch before sex to minimize any potential odor or leakage.

3. Experiment with positions: Certain positions may be more comfortable than others, depending on the location of your stoma. You may want to try different positions to find what works best for you.

4. Use a wrap or support belt: Wearing a wrap or support belt can help keep your ostomy pouch in place and prevent it from getting in the way during sex.

5. Take your time: Don't rush into sex if you're not feeling ready or comfortable. Take your time and go at your own pace.

6. Be gentle: Be gentle with your stoma and the surrounding area, as it may be sensitive or tender.

Based on discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here's a summary of advice and insights on sex with an ostomy:

1. Maintaining Intimacy:
- Use sexy lingerie, such as bustiers, corsets, or silk, to divert attention from the ostomy.
- Consider using covers or custom-made covers for the ostomy to conceal it during intimate moments.
- Confidence and open communication with the partner are crucial.

2. Dealing with Self-Image Challenges:
- Experiment with sex toys alone to find comfortable positions before engaging in sexual activities with a partner.
- Seek medical help for any ongoing physical discomfort or health issues related to the ostomy.

3. Disclosing the Ostomy to a Partner:
- Be upfront and honest about the ostomy when the relationship starts getting more physical.
- Consider using clothing items from companies like Ostomy Secrets to cover the ostomy during intimacy.

4. Navigating Dating and Intimacy:
- Be honest up front to avoid wasting time and gauge the potential partner's reaction.
- Focus on getting your health right first before worrying about a potential partner's reaction to your ostomy.

5. Acceptance and Embracing Life with an Ostomy:
- Accepting and embracing life with an ostomy is about attitude and perspective.
- Finding the right products and techniques that work for managing the ostomy can significantly improve anxiety and attitude.

6. Seeking Support and Understanding:
- Seek support and understanding from the community, and openly discuss personal experiences and concerns related to ostomy surgery and intimacy.

If you have further questions or need personalized advice, consider posting your question in the discussion forum of MeetAnOstoMate.org.

Check out these links for more information:

• Intimate Sex with Ostomy: How is it Possible? (January 21, 2020)
• Sex with a Colostomy: Seeking Advice (March 08, 2022)
• Seeking Advice: Sex and Self-Image Challenges with an Ostomy (May 30, 2011)
• The ostomy-sex question (October 25, 2012)
• Sex and Ostomies: A Non-Ostomate's Surprising Perspective (December 07, 2016)
• Seeking advice on sex life after ileostomy surgery (February 10, 2014)
• Enhancing Sex with an Ileostomy: Seeking Advice (May 23, 2018)
• Managing Intimacy with an Ostomy: Tips and Tricks for Privacy (September 29, 2020)
• Exploring Gay Intimacy with an Ostomy Bag: Is it Feasible? (July 23, 2019)
• Sex with an ostomy bag: Tips to avoid interference? (July 15, 2020)